Innovation Communities - Teamworking of Key Persons - A Success Factor in Radical Innovation (Hardcover, 2012)

Self-organising networks have become the dominant innovators of complex technologies and radical innovation. The growing need for co-operation to ensure innovation success calls for a broader understanding of what makes innovation projects successful and requires new concepts. The book introduces the new concept of innovation communities, defining them as informal networks of like-minded individuals who act as innovation promotors or champions. These key figures come from various companies and organisations and will team up in a project-related fashion, jointly promoting a certain innovation, product or idea either on one or across different levels of an innovation system.

The publication presents findings from surveys that demonstrate that networks of champions are a success factor in radical innovation. Five case studies of noteworthy innovation projects illustrate why the collaboration of champions can make innovation projects more successful. Furthermore, the book presents hands-on methods and includes best-practice cases and guidelines on how to develop innovation communities.

This publication comprises empirical findings and practical experiences that are valuable for the following groups in particular: Entrepreneurs;Innovation, R&D, and network managers;Innovation and strategy consultants;Innovation and start-up intermediaries;Innovation researchers;Government officials and politicians responsible for R&D and innovation programmes and funding"